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PFAS in Toothpaste: Which Brands Grade Best and Worst

Davids Davids Natural Toothpaste Peppermint Charcoal emerges as the top performer in our analysis of PFAS concern levels in mainstream toothpaste products. Graded A (100/100 safety based on our model-based estimate from materials and public disclosure), this formulation shows the lowest concern profile across sourced ingredient databases and brand transparency assessments. It achieves this standing through deliberate avoidance of synthetic surfactants commonly linked to PFAS contamination and reliance on mineral-based abrasives and plant-derived cleaning agents.

By contrast, major conventional brands including Colgate Optic White, Crest 3D White Advanced, and Sensodyne Repair and Protect all grade D (65/100 safety), indicating higher model-estimated concern based on formulation patterns. This grade reflects composition patterns associated with PFAS-containing surfactants commonly used in whitening and stain-removal systems—though it represents our estimate based on available materials data, not confirmed PFAS lab testing of these specific products. The disparity between grades reveals a significant divide: ingredient transparency and formulation philosophy matter substantially when evaluating PFAS concern in oral care.

Quick Grade Comparison

Product	Grade	Safety Score	Verdict
Davids Davids Natural Toothpaste Peppermint Charcoal	A	100/100	Lowest model-estimated concern; mineral-based formula
Davids Davids Toothpaste	A	90/100	Lower concern; natural surfactant base
Native Native Fluoride Free Toothpaste	A	90/100	Lower concern; clean ingredient profile
Hello Hello Fluoride Free Toothpaste Superfresh Spearmint	B	80/100	Moderate concern; some synthetic additives
Davids Davids Premium Natural Toothpaste	B	80/100	Moderate concern; whitening agents present
Colgate Optic White Toothpaste	D	65/100	Higher model-estimated concern; conventional formula
Crest 3D White Advanced Glamorous White	D	65/100	Higher model-estimated concern; intensive whitening
Sensodyne Repair and Protect Whitening	D	65/100	Higher model-estimated concern; dual-action formula

Understanding PFAS in Toothpaste

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a class of approximately 12,000 industrial chemicals widely used for their water and oil-repelling properties. In oral care products, PFAS concern arises primarily from surfactants—the foaming and cleaning agents that break down plaque and stains. Certain brands, particularly those emphasizing whitening and stain removal, historically relied on fluorosurfactants to enhance their whitening efficacy. While direct PFAS presence in toothpaste has not been exhaustively lab-tested across all commercial formulations, the association between specific ingredient categories and PFAS contamination is well-documented in materials science literature.

Importantly: association between an ingredient class and PFAS is not causation, and brand-stated claims of "natural" or "clean" formulations should be distinguished from third-party verification. Our grades represent model-based estimates derived from ingredient transparency, formulation patterns, and available sourced data—not laboratory confirmation of PFAS presence or absence in these specific products.

Top Performers: A and B Grade Products

Davids Davids Natural Toothpaste Peppermint Charcoal — Grade A (100/100)

Materials & Formulation: This toothpaste combines activated charcoal (for gentle abrasion and stain absorption) with mineral-based polishing agents and plant-derived surfactants. The formula omits synthetic fluorosurfactants and relies on calcium carbonate and sodium bicarbonate for cleaning action.

Brand Claims: Davids emphasizes its non-GMO, vegan, and all-natural positioning. The brand publicly states its commitment to "fluoride-free formulations" and transparent ingredient sourcing—claims the company backs through ingredient disclosure on packaging and its website.

Pros: Mineral-based abrasives avoid the surfactant categories most commonly associated with PFAS contamination pathways. High ingredient transparency reduces uncertainty. Whitening benefit from activated charcoal without reliance on aggressive synthetic agents. Fluoride-free formulation appeals to consumers avoiding this additive.

Cons: Charcoal particles, while gentle, may be overstated as "whitening" versus simply stain-absorbing. No third-party lab certification explicitly testing for PFAS absence. Slightly higher cost than mass-market alternatives. May not provide the intensive whitening of conventional whitening pastes.

Davids Davids Toothpaste — Grade A (90/100)

Materials & Formulation: A fluoride-free formulation built on plant-based saponins as primary surfactants, paired with mineral polishing agents. This base avoids synthetic surfactant chemistries most commonly linked to PFAS introduction in manufacturing.

Brand Claims: Davids states its commitment to clean label practices, though the company's core claim centers on fluoride-free benefits rather than explicit PFAS avoidance messaging (which remains uncommon across the toothpaste category).

Pros: Plant-derived surfactants represent a lower-concern alternative to synthetic fluorosurfactants. Consistent ingredient transparency. Suitable for families preferring fluoride-free options. Well-reviewed for taste and texture among users.

Cons: Slightly lower score (90 vs. 100) reflects minor presence of gum and flavoring agents with less complete sourcing disclosure. No lab-verified PFAS testing published by the brand.

Native Native Fluoride Free Toothpaste — Grade A (90/100)

Materials & Formulation: Native's formulation centers on naturally derived surfactants and mineral abrasives. The brand markets its products as "sulfate-free" and avoids several conventional additive categories.

Brand Claims: Native emphasizes clean beauty and personal care positioning, claiming no artificial sweeteners, sulfates, or parabens. However, the brand does not specifically market PFAS avoidance as a core messaging pillar.

Pros: Established reputation for clean formulation across its product line. Consumer base actively seeks PFAS-conscious alternatives. Sulfate-free formulation reduces likelihood of PFAS-containing surfactants.

Cons: Like other A-graded products, no published third-party lab analysis specifically confirming PFAS absence. Pricing slightly above budget mainstream options.

Hello Hello Fluoride Free Toothpaste Superfresh Spearmint — Grade B (80/100)

Materials & Formulation: Hello positions as a "natural" toothpaste with some plant-based ingredients but includes synthetic additives such as xylitol (polyol sweetener) and various gums. The formula includes mineral polishers but less complete disclosure of surfactant sourcing than A-graded alternatives.

Brand Claims: Hello markets itself as free of artificial flavors and sweeteners, though it does use synthetic xylitol. Fluoride-free positioning is central to brand messaging.

Pros: Xylitol provides cavity-prevention benefit without fluoride, backed by dental research. More affordable than premium natural brands. Widely available in mainstream retail.

Cons: B grade reflects less transparent surfactant sourcing and inclusion of synthetic sweeteners and binders with moderate contamination pathways. Xylitol manufacturing can introduce PFAS in some production methods, though not universally.

Lower Performers: D Grade Products

All major conventional toothpaste brands in our analysis—including Colgate Optic White, Crest 3D White Advanced Glamorous White, Sensodyne Repair and Protect Whitening, and Colgate Cavity Protection—grade D (65/100). This grade reflects formulation patterns and ingredient categories associated with higher PFAS contamination risk based on available materials databases, though it remains a model-based estimate.

Why Lower Grades? These formulations typically employ synthetic surfactants optimized for whitening performance and stain lifting. Conventional whitening toothpastes often include peroxide or other aggressive polishing systems that historically relied on fluorosurfactant chemistry. Additionally, these brands provide minimal transparency regarding specific surfactant sourcing or manufacturing pathways. Mass-market production at scale can introduce PFAS during synthesis or as impurities in shared manufacturing facilities.

Important Caveat: A D grade based on our materials model does not mean these products are confirmed to contain PFAS. Rather, the formulation patterns and ingredient categories suggest higher model-estimated concern compared to natural alternatives. Consumers seeking definitive PFAS testing should note that most toothpaste manufacturers—across all price and positioning categories—have not commissioned or published independent lab analysis for PFAS content.

What to Avoid

• Unverified "Natural" Claims Without Ingredient Transparency: Brands marketing as "natural" but providing vague ingredient lists or declining to disclose specific surfactant sourcing carry higher uncertainty. Demand full ingredient disclosure before assuming lower PFAS concern.
• Intensive Whitening Formulas Without Surfactant Details: Products emphasizing aggressive stain removal and whitening potency historically relied on synthetic surfactants. If a brand cannot specify its surfactant source (plant-derived vs. synthetic), it represents higher model-estimated concern.
• Brands Ignoring the PFAS Conversation: Companies with zero transparency regarding PFAS awareness or formulation choices (most conventional brands as of 2024) should trigger caution among concerned consumers. Lack of engagement with this issue suggests either indifference or awareness of concerning supply chains.
• Products with Undisclosed Flavor or Sweetener Sources: Additives like artificial sweeteners and flavor compounds can be PFAS contamination vectors if sourced from suppliers with poor controls. Seek brands specifying natural flavor derivation.

PFAS Concern Beyond Toothpaste

If you're evaluating PFAS across your household, toothpaste represents one vector among many. PFAS contamination also occurs in food packaging, cookware, cosmetics, and makeup products. A comprehensive approach involves assessing multiple product categories using PFAS Database's category-specific guides.

Our Pick

For consumers prioritizing lower model-estimated PFAS concern in oral care, Davids Davids Natural Toothpaste Peppermint Charcoal represents the strongest choice based on available materials data and formulation transparency. Its A grade (100/100) reflects the most comprehensive ingredient disclosure, mineral-based abrasive system, and demonstrated commitment to surfactant sourcing clarity. The activated charcoal whitening mechanism sidesteps reliance on synthetic fluorosurfactant chemistry historically associated with PFAS contamination pathways.

For consumers seeking a balance between lower concern and broader availability, Native Native Fluoride Free Toothpaste (Grade A, 90/100) offers strong formulation practices and established retail presence, though at slightly higher cost than mass-market alternatives.

Importantly: none of these products are lab-verified as "PFAS-free" based on published third-party testing. Our grades represent model-based estimates from materials and disclosure patterns. Consumers wanting absolute certainty regarding PFAS presence or absence should advocate for independent lab testing or direct brand commitment to such testing—which remains rare across the toothpaste category as of 2024.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Are A-graded toothpastes confirmed PFAS-free by laboratory testing?

No. Our A grades represent our model-based estimates from ingredient transparency, formulation patterns, and public disclosure—not laboratory confirmation. As of 2024, most toothpaste manufacturers (including Davids, Native, and major conventional brands) have not published independent lab results specifically testing for PFAS content in their finished products. A high grade indicates lower model-estimated concern based on available materials data, but it is not equivalent to a lab-verified PFAS-free certification. Consumers wanting definitive answers should contact brands directly requesting third-party lab testing results.

Q2: Can fluoride-free formulations guarantee lower PFAS risk?

Not necessarily. Fluoride-free and PFAS-free are distinct issues. A product can be fluoride-free yet contain PFAS from surfactant or additive sources. Conversely